Don’t Spark a Fire This Fourth of July -- Celebrate Your Holiday Safely

BOTHELL, Wash. – This fire season, FEMA is urging extreme caution with any Fourth of July celebrations that include fireworks, campfires, or grilling. Record-breaking temperatures and drought conditions have increased the fire danger of outdoor recreational activities this summer.

Much of the region is currently under red flag warnings and faces the risk of thunderstorms and lightning strikes. Outdoor activities (driving on high grass, camping, grilling) heighten the threat of human-caused wildfires.  While fireworks are an American tradition, they also intensify wildfire danger and can be extremely dangerous in the hands of consumers.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 19,500 fires reported to local fire departments in the U.S. in 2018 were started by fireworks. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a display put on by professionals or view a virtual show. Be sure to heed local regulations for firework use.

Group holiday gatherings also bring increased chance of exposure to COVID-19. Follow local guidance for safe outdoor activities as well as recommendations for face coverings and social distancing guidelines.

FEMA wishes you a safe and happy holiday weekend.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 07/01/2021 - 20:33

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Luzerne County, PA

Philadelphia - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) along the Susquehanna River in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania and its incorporated areas. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period, which will begin on or around July 1, 2021.

Because flood risk changes over time, flood maps are routinely updated to more accurately represent flood risk. In this case, updates were made in response to the extensive flooding seen during Tropical Storm Lee in September 2011. For more background information on this mapping update, visit: https://www.fema.gov/pennsylvania/mitigating-flood-risk.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

Appeals and comments may be submitted by contacting your municipality’s floodplain administrator. The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Susquehanna River Flood Map Viewer: https://arcg.is/1CLSan. If you do not have access to the internet, you can view hardcopies of the maps by contacting your municipality’s floodplain administrator or by contacting the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority:  Christopher J. Belleman, PE, Executive Director; cbelleman@lcfpa.org; (570) 208-6100 ext.1. Additional information and property owner resources are provided on the Authority website at www.lcfpa.org .

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Luzerne County Flood Mapping Milestones

• Aug. 16, 2017 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• Sept. 15, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• Nov. 5, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• On or Around July 1, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
• Luzerne County Open House (date and location to be decided, at the County’s discretion)
• September 2022* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

amanda.hancher Thu, 07/01/2021 - 19:36

FEMA Announces $700 million in Hazard Mitigation Selections

WASHINGTON-- FEMA has selected the subapplications for the $700 million being made available in fiscal year 2020 (FY20) for Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant programs.

These competitive programs provide funding to states, tribes, territories and local governments for eligible mitigation activities to strengthen our nation’s ability to reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from disaster damage.

“Mitigation is an investment that makes a real difference in our communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “We’re seeing the effects of climate change now. We must continue to identify opportunities to combat the impacts of climate change and help our communities become more resilient against the threats of future disasters.”

These FY20 selections are a first for the BRIC program which was authorized by Section 1234 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018.

Over the last several months, FEMA reviewed subapplications to ensure that they are eligible, long-term, cost-effective and technically feasible in reducing the impacts of hazards.  A subapplication can be determined as one of three categories: “Identified for Further Review,” “Not Selected” or “Does not Meet HMA Requirements.” 

FEMA regions will work with applicants to conduct programmatic reviews of the selected “Identified for Further Review” subapplications before making a final decision for funding.

Through the FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) system, FEMA will notify applicants and subapplicants that a determination has been made regarding the status of their FY20 grant application.

The determinations can be reviewed online at the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance web pages.

The top five project types selected for BRIC by total project cost are:

• Flood Control, $550 million
• Utility/Infrastructure Protection, $91.3 million
• Wildfire Management, $49.3 million
• Relocation, $21.9 million
• Saferoom/shelters, $15.2 million

The top five project types selected for FMA total project cost are:

• Flood Control, $187.7 million
• Elevation, $159.3 million
• Acquisition, $75.2 million
• Relocation, $11.8 million
• Mitigation Reconstruction, $8.3 million

For additional information or any questions, grant applicants can contact their FEMA regional office. More information about Hazard Mitigation Assistance is available online.

For additional information about the funding priorities for both programs, visit the Notice of Funding Opportunities available at FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 07/01/2021 - 18:29

FEMA Cost Share Adjustment Grants Oregon More Funds for Disaster Recovery

WASHINGTON-- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that on June 30, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available for the state of Oregon.

The President authorized an increase in the level of federal funding for Public Assistance projects undertaken as result of wildfires and straight-line winds during the period of Sept. 7 to Nov. 3, 2020. The state of Oregon received a major disaster declaration on Sept. 15, 2020.

Federal funding was originally available for Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation and Other Needs Assistance at 75% of the total eligible costs.         

Under the President's order, the federal share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program has been increased to 100% of the total eligible costs for a continuous period of 30 days established by the state of Oregon.  

zella.campbell Wed, 06/30/2021 - 22:32

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight 0419 Fire in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash.  -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the 0419 Fire burning in Deschutes County, Oregon, near the City of Redmond.

FEMA Region 10 Acting Regional Administrator Vincent Maykovich determined that the fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. He approved the State of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) on Tues. June 29, 2021, at 11 p.m. PT. This is the first FMAG declared in 2021 to help fight Oregon wildfires.

At the time of the State’s request, the fire was threatening homes in and around the city of Redmond. The fire also threatened the Redmond Municipal Airport, Central Oregon Community College, as well as local businesses, railroads, and transmission lines in the area. The State of Oregon continues to experience extreme heat conditions and has burn bans and red flag warnings in place.

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. 

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the State’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

With this FMAG authorization, additional funds will be available to Oregon through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area. 

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

hannah.weinstein Wed, 06/30/2021 - 21:41

AFG Program Awarded More Than $1.1 Billion to Arizona, California and Nevada Fire Departments, Fire Districts and EMS Organizations

OAKLAND, Calif. – June marks the 20th anniversary of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). The program, which also includes Staffing for Adequate Emergency Response and Fire Prevention and Safety grants, was authorized by Congress to provide federal funding directly to local fire departments and emergency organizations. Since its inception, AFG’s mission has remained the same: Help firefighters and first responders obtain the equipment, training and other resources necessary to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

AFG is a profoundly important program. Over the past 20 years, it has provided recipients with more than 79,000 individual awards, totaling more than $12 billion. Over the program’s 20-year history, Arizona, California and Nevada received 4,451 grants worth more than $1.1 billion.

• Arizona received 1,217 awards for $239,463,292.
• California received 3,025 awards for $829,958,307.
• Nevada received 209 awards for $69,791,827.

In the last grant cycle, 82 fire departments, fire districts and non-affiliated emergency medical services organizations received awards in FEMA Region 9. Here are a few highlights:

• The Santa Ynez Band of Mission Indians in California used funds to contract a grant writer, which helped procure an AFG award to purchase vehicle extrication equipment.
• The North Las Vegas Fire Department’s grant purchased portable defibrillation and monitoring technology to help deliver high-quality CPR, provide optimal defibrillation and pacing treatments, and manage data to address critical quality improvements.
• Arizona’s Northwest Fire District purchased public safety two-way radios to deliver clear and secure communications during emergency situations.

AFG’s latest award cycle provided $350 million to 2,500 eligible fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical services organizations and state fire training academies. Eligible activities included operations and safety, vehicle acquisition and regional projects to equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability and support community resilience.

For more information on the AFG program, visit fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 9 includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa and more than 150 federally-recognized tribes. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Wed, 06/30/2021 - 20:31

Preliminary Flood Maps for Wilson County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of Cities of Elmendorf and La Vernia; and unincorporated areas of Wilson County, Texas.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) is collaborating with FEMA to schedule open house meetings to help the public learn more about the FIRMs and local flood risk to assist during this public comment period. Information about the open house meetings will be available at www.sariverauthority.org/whats-new/events.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Bexar County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) and setting rates for flood insurance. SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas. Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
• FEMA Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov/portal.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Cost-saving options are available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about flood insurance options by talking with an insurance agent or visiting www.floodsmart.gov.

The River Authority is the local Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) with FEMA as they assist in delivering high-quality hazard identification and risk assessment products throughout their four-county jurisdiction of Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad counties. As a CTP, the River Authority also provides FEMA outreach support to empower local communities to take action to reduce risk based on informed, multi hazard-based data and resources. For more information about flood risk in Bexar County, please visit the River Authority’s Flood Risk page at: www.sariverauthority.org.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 06/30/2021 - 17:17

Preliminary Flood Maps for Bexar County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the Cities of China Grove, Elmendorf, San Antonio and St. Hedwig; and unincorporated areas of Bexar County, Texas.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) is collaborating with FEMA to schedule open house meetings to help the public learn more about the FIRMs and local flood risk to assist during this public comment period. Information about the open house meetings will be available at www.sariverauthority.org/whats-new/events.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Bexar County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) and setting rates for flood insurance. SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas. Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
• FEMA Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov/portal.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Cost-saving options are available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about flood insurance options by talking with an insurance agent or visiting www.floodsmart.gov.

The River Authority is the local Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) with FEMA as they assist in delivering high-quality hazard identification and risk assessment products throughout their four-county jurisdiction of Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad counties. As a CTP, the River Authority also provides FEMA outreach support to empower local communities to take action to reduce risk based on informed, multi hazard-based data and resources. For more information about flood risk in Bexar County, please visit the River Authority’s Flood Risk page at: www.sariverauthority.org.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 06/30/2021 - 17:12

Vermont Awarded Over $14 Million in Federal Funds for Community-Based, Coronavirus Testing

REGION 1 – Through its Agency of Human Services, the State of Vermont recently received a $14,305,846 FEMA grant for community-based, COVID-19 testing of Vermonters.

The Vermont agency contracted with Cambridge, Massachusetts-headquartered CIC Health to provide coronavirus testing throughout the Green Mountain State.

FEMA provided funds through a grant from its Public Assistance Grant Program. The grant reimbursed the Agency of Human Services for eligible costs it submitted for testing kits and associated operations beginning March 25 and possibly continuing through September 30. FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible costs for this Public Assistance project.

“We are pleased to once again reimburse our valued partners at the State of Vermont for their efforts in the ongoing fight against COVID-19,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England. “These testing kits have helped protect the health of many—and will continue to be important in keeping many safe throughout the summer.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include states, commonwealths, local governments, federally recognized Tribal governments, certain private non-profit organizations and territories.

As of June 23, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program obligated more than $232 million in 115 projects related to the coronavirus pandemic in Vermont. Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters

adrien.urbani Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:44

FEMA Amends COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Policy

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is amending the agency’s COVID-19 funeral assistance policy to assist with COVID-19 related fatalities that occurred in the early months of the pandemic.

This policy change will allow applicants to submit a statement or letter from the death certificate’s certifying official, medical examiner, or coroner that attributes the death to COVID-19 fatalities that occurred between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020.

This policy change was made after consulting with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention officials and other health experts. The new policy provides applicants, as well as medical authorities, coroners and jurisdictions, flexibility to attribute a death to COVID-19 without amending the death certificate. The change also provides flexibility with documentation for the period before the CDC-published and implemented COVID-19 death certificate guidance in the spring of 2020.

Since FEMA began taking COVID-19 funeral assistance applications, the agency has awarded more than $447 million in assistance to over 66,800 applicants.

Applicants who incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020, will be able to submit a death certificate that does not attribute the death to COVID-19 along with a signed statement from the certifying official listed on the death certificate, coroner, or medical examiner linking the death to COVID-19. The written statement must show causal pathway, or an explanation, linking the cause of death listed on the death certificate to the virus and should be submitted with the death certificate.

Applicants also retain the option of contacting the individual who certified the death to request a death certificate amendment if they can provide justification demonstrating the death should be attributed to COVID-19. The certifying individual’s name and address should be on the death certificate. 

For deaths occurring after May 16, 2020, COVID-19 funeral assistance documentation must include a copy of a death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19.

Individuals who would like to apply for assistance should call the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline tollfree, at 844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday - Friday. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so agency representatives are able to contact them. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions can be found on FEMA.gov. This information is available online in 12 different languages and through FEMA-provided language services.

zella.campbell Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:41

Region II Acting Administrator Focuses on Disaster Preparedness During Visit to U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands – Region II Acting Administrator Thomas Fargione focused on ways FEMA could strengthen support for disaster response with Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and other leaders in the Territory during the monthly Emergency Management Council meeting at the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) building on St. Thomas.

The council meeting discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen the Territory’s ability to respond to a disaster while addressing complexities in the areas of medical evacuations, airport and seaport operations, communications and commodity distribution. Acting Regional Administrator Fargione later reviewed the focus areas in greater detail with VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen after the council meeting.

Acting Regional Administrator Fargione joined the agency in 2009 and is a former Region II Incident Management Assistance Team (IMAT) leader. He has served as the team lead for National IMAT-Blue since 2017.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to get an on-the-ground look at disaster preparedness and response with FEMA’s partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands. I’m particularly excited to see the progress the Territory has made to build its capacity and strengthen its posture for disaster response. Rest assured, FEMA Region 2 stands ready to deploy its resources to support the Territory at a moment’s notice this hurricane season,” said Acting Regional Administrator Fargione.

Building on the success of the jointly held Response Capstone event several weeks ago, Region II’s Response Division and FEMA’s U.S. Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office continue to coordinate planning and resources with Governor Bryan and Director Jaschen to put the U.S. Virgin Islands in position to respond to any storms that may impact the Territory this summer.

"After the last EMC meeting, I'm confident in our preparedness efforts, and Acting Administrator Fargione stands ready to continue our long-standing and close partnership with FEMA," Governor Bryan said. "Residents can be reassured that together with our federal partners, we are ready and resilient for the hurricane season."

VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen emphasized the importance of federal and territorial partnerships for successful emergency management. “The partnership with VITEMA and FEMA in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic through the fundamentals and discipline of emergency management for the past 15 months are the exact same methods used to prepare for and respond to a tropical cyclone threat,” said Director Jaschen. “Our recent Capstone event focused on a major hurricane response to the Territory and included additional local agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and federal partners. When lives are at risk and time is limited, planning and response efforts must be maximized. Quickly gathering information, identifying gaps, and providing sound recommendation to leaders is paramount for our teams.”

FEMA will continue to leverage its resources to support preparedness, response, and recovery in the U.S. Virgin Islands, but these efforts begin and end with individuals. Virgin Islanders have an opportunity to prepare themselves and their families for tropical storms and hurricanes well before watches and warnings arise during the peak of the season in late summer.

Review emergency plans for your families and businesses, get informed and stay alert. Focus on alternatives for medical needs such as dialysis treatment and diabetes as well as prescriptions. Review insurance policies for your homes, businesses, and vehicles.

Learn more about emergency planning at https://www.ready.gov/plan , readiness for individuals with disabilities at www.ready.gov/disability and financial preparedness at www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness . Subscribe to VITEMA’s mass notification system Alert VI to receive emergency alerts.

• Discuss the latest V.I. Department of Health guidance of COVID-19 with your family and how it could affect your hurricane planning.

If you or anyone in your household is elderly or an individual with a disability, access, or functional need, identify any additional help during an emergency. Virgin Islanders age 60 and older and persons with disabilities may register with the V.I. Department of Human Services’ Elder, Dependent Adult and Disabled Persons Disaster Registry.

• To register, call 340-774-0930 ext. 4018 on St. Thomas, 340-776-6334 on St. John and 340-773-6630 on St. Croix. You can download and fill out a registry form at http://dhs.gov.vi/home/index.html .

It takes only one hurricane, or even a tropical storm, to cause a disaster.

delia.husband Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:15

FEMA Awards City of Jacksonville $1.4 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,418,366 for the State of Florida to help the City of Jacksonville defray the costs associated with Hurricane Irma in 2017.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the city for administrative costs of tracking and accounting for labor, equipment, materials and other expenses after the storm.

The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

barbara.murien… Tue, 06/29/2021 - 17:23

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Lava Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Lava Fire, which is burning in Siskiyou County.

On June 28, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Lava Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,100 homes in and around Lake Shastina, Mt. Shasta Vista and Carrick. The fire also threatened a local water supply, power lines and a major rail line in the area. Mandatory evacuations were in place for around 10,000 people.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on June 28, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Tue, 06/29/2021 - 14:26

FEMA Reaches 8,000 Project Obligations Related to Hurricane María

This represents an injection of over $2.4 billion to the municipal governments

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico— The Federal Emergency Management Agency announces/marks another milestone in Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, reaching over 8,000 projects approved for nearly $25.6 billion in federal funds.

The total projects with funds allocated so far ranges from debris removal and emergency protection measures granted at the beginning of the recovery, to permanent work and administrative expenses for municipalities and government agencies. The allocations also cover projects for nonprofit organizations.

“At FEMA, our commitment to the rebuilding and recovery of Puerto Rico is seen every time we allocate funds for a project, with every stone that is laid to reconstruct a building and with every road that is now safer and stronger. These awards cover all categories of permanent work, such as education, health, historic buildings, roads and bridges, sports and recreational facilities, among others,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico José G. Baquero.

One of the nonprofit organizations with approved funding of more than $300,000 is the Ruth Home (Hogar Ruth), a shelter that has been providing services to survivors of domestic violence since 1984.

“During 2020 a total of 6,575 participants received our services. One of the most difficult challenges for any nonprofit organization is to be able to access funds that allow for reconstruction. Without access to these funds, it would have been impossible to return to the normalcy required after what we went through,” said Lisdel Flores Barger, the shelter’s executive director.

On the other hand, the allocations cover close to $56 million for 54 projects of the Department of Health. The most recent award is for nearly $53 million to carry out permanent work at the Public Health Laboratory located at the Río Piedras Medical Center, known as Centro Médico. HIV tests are performed there, as well as other specialized services such as microbiology.

Similarly, in terms of bridge and road repairs, nearly $1.2 billion has been approved to strengthen the transportation infrastructure throughout Puerto Rico. The funds for hazard mitigation measures are intended to strengthen this sector - one of the most affected by the hurricane - and thus allow for efficient evacuation and delivery of supplies during future disasters.

In addition, funds have been approved to bring back the luster to municipal and community recreational facilities around the island. In this classification are some $18.4 million allocated for permanent repairs already completed at the renowned Roberto Clemente Walker Stadium in Carolina. This sports venue, which has been the scene of important international competitions, also fulfills a social function by serving as a center for receiving and distributing donations for disasters. Mass vaccinations and now COVID-19 tests have also been carried out there.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), said that most of the subrecipients are now conducting the initial bidding processes to complete reconstruction projects. “To advance this work, we have announced changes in our reimbursement policy, as well as other initiatives that promote the development of the works. To date, over $4.7 billion has been disbursed for projects completed under the emergency and permanent works categories. We will continue to work as a team to expedite the reconstruction processes for the benefit of our people, in compliance with the public policy of Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi,” Laboy Rivera added.

FEMA obligates project funds to applicants through COR3. In order for applicants to receive the money awarded, they must submit the required documentation to ensure compliance with local and federal requirements.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 06/29/2021 - 11:32

FEMA COVID-19 funeral assistance passes $447 million

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided more than $447 million to 66,800 people to assist with COVID-19 related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Nearly 2,500 dedicated FEMA employees continue to work with applicants to review every application and determine eligibility each week. Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.

“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the process for assistance.

Please find below state-specific information:

State/Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

ALABAMA

5,185

$10,896,364

1,561

ALASKA

108

$121,710

20

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$0

0

ARIZONA

3,838

$4,721,635

876

ARKANSAS

2,177

$4,548,918

693

CALIFORNIA

24,602

$39,433,578

5,946

COLORADO

1,716

$2,064,916

364

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

Less than 10

$4,344

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

2,846

$6,966,213

983

DELAWARE

704

$1,123,258

172

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

454

$846,955

122

FLORIDA

12,959

$21,137,095

3,658

GEORGIA

8,568

$17,452,887

2,497

GUAM

11

$20,436

Less than 10

HAWAII

222

$316,740

50

IDAHO

459

$673,586

117

ILLINOIS

9,644

$21,225,722

3,058

INDIANA

3,985

$8,403,195

1,187

IOWA

2,075

$5,399,127

737

KANSAS

1,896

$4,544,720

676

KENTUCKY

3,054

$5,830,373

809

LOUISIANA

4,248

$7,943,971

1,135

MAINE

280

$346,945

69

MARYLAND

4,574

$8,260,084

1,207

MASSACHUSETTS

4,705

$9,706,990

1,372

MICHIGAN

7,776

$14,066,404

2,306

MINNESOTA

2,196

$5,467,485

772

MISSISSIPPI

3,715

$5,877,846

850

MISSOURI

3,914

$7,311,740

1,101

MONTANA

396

$407,277

82

NEBRASKA

971

$2,227,146

306

NEVADA

1,946

$2,795,802

508

NEW HAMPSHIRE

551

$929,202

153

NEW JERSEY

9,889

$18,022,328

2,555

NEW MEXICO

1,266

$1,426,207

265

NEW YORK

21,350

$40,055,997

5,624

NORTH CAROLINA

6,737

$14,395,949

2,155

NORTH DAKOTA

568

$1,170,090

154

OHIO

7,888

$19,200,191

2,957

OKLAHOMA

3,202

$7,557,679

1,133

OREGON

663

$1,090,855

204

PENNSYLVANIA

10,572

$25,555,906

3,872

PUERTO RICO

968

$278,526

77

RHODE ISLAND

980

$2,271,657

323

SOUTH CAROLINA

4,730

$10,554,616

1,486

SOUTH DAKOTA

603

$1,603,913

208

TENNESSEE

5,627

$12,502,192

1,777

TEXAS

20,655

$48,091,192

7,218

UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS

22

$29,885

Less than 10

UTAH

856

$1,950,901

274

VERMONT

117

$192,885

32

VIRGINIA

4,998

$10,133,182

1,493

WASHINGTON

1,465

$2,116,419

365

WEST VIRGINIA

1,182

$2,035,400

290

WISCONSIN

3,734

$6,085,512

872

WYOMING

200

$436,280

77

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. today,  

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 06/28/2021 - 20:27

FEMA Provides $3 Million to the City of Madison, South Dakota

DENVER – FEMA  is awarding more than $3 million in Public Assistance funding to the City of Madison, South Dakota for repairs to the Park Creek Embankment System. The assistance is available under a major disaster declaration issued November 18, 2019. FEMA has already provided a total of $13.3 million to South Dakota communities for this disaster.

The City of Madison has been awarded:

• $1.9 million to repair damage from heavy rains and flooding to the historic drainage channels and stone wall embankment located at Memorial Park and to mitigate potential future damage to the drainage channel system.
• $1.1 million to restore the stone wall embankment from Egan to Harth Avenue back to its pre-disaster function and capacity.

The funding is provided through FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program which reimburses state, tribal, local, and certain non-profit agencies for a portion of the repair, hazard mitigation measures, and rebuilding of public infrastructure damaged as a result of a presidentially declared disaster.

The program provides at least a 75 percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

anthony.mayne Mon, 06/28/2021 - 19:04

Florida Department of Transportation approved for additional $123.6 million in Hurricane Michael debris cleanup reimbursements

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved $123,610,893 to reimburse the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for debris removal activities following Hurricane Michael.

The funds will reimburse FDOT for debris cleanup activities between Oct. 2018 to July 2019 throughout Bay, Calhoun, Gadsden and Jackson counties. Work completed includes collecting and removing 6,757,955 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 460,645 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris, 49,238 hazardous leaning trees, 48,617 hanging limbs and 2,427 hazardous stumps from public roads and property, infrastructure and rights of way that posed a threat to public health and safety.

This brings FEMA's total grants for the department's Hurricane Michael-related expenses to $179 million.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

barbara.murien… Mon, 06/28/2021 - 19:03

FEMA Still Here to Assist Alabama’s Recovery FEMA Still Here to Assist Alabama’s Recovery

Clanton, Ala. – The deadline for registering with FEMA has passed, but that does not mean FEMA is leaving. FEMA continues working with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) to help Alabama survivors and communities recover from the impacts caused by the severe storms and tornadoes on March 25-26.

If you have registered for assistance, FEMA encourages you to keep in touch to track your case or to notify the agency of changes to your mailing address, email addresses or phone numbers, and to report insurance settlements or additional damage you may have discovered since your home inspection.

Here’s how to reach FEMA:

• Online at www.disasterassistance.gov
• Download the www.fema.gov/mobile-app.
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY 800-462-7585), 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. central time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Operators are multilingual and those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. If you need accommodations for language or a disability, let the operator know.

For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit www.disasterassistance.gov and click “information.”

For referrals to Alabama’s health and human service agencies as well as community organizations, dial 211, text 888-421-1266, or chat with referral specialists via www.211connectsalabama.org.

For more information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit ema.alabama.gov, AlabamaEMA Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4596 and www.facebook.com/fema.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

brianasummer.fenton Mon, 06/28/2021 - 17:52

Housing, Energy and Transportation Project Obligations Spring Recovery Forward

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – A focus toward building smarter and stronger has pushed forward recovery projects this past spring to strengthen the resilience of the Territory’s power grid, revitalize hurricane-damaged housing communities and repair roads fit to withstand the perils of storms.   

As of June 16, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program has obligated $675.2 million for 78 projects since March 21, 2021, toward permanent repairs to infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria in September 2017. This increases funding obligated overall for the U.S. Virgin Islands’ recovery to $1.2 billion for permanent work supported through PA.

“Our goal in supporting the recovery from hurricanes Irma and Maria is to implement innovative solutions toward overcoming the challenges left behind by the destructive 2017 storms to meet the Territory’s priorities of strengthening community lifelines for Virgin Islanders. FEMA will continue to work with our territorial partners to navigate a path toward an equitable recovery for all Virgin Islanders,” said Recovery Director Kristen Hodge.

Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Office of Disaster Recovery Director stated, “The recent obligations for our housing communities, roads and electrical systems are timely and critical to improving the everyday life of Virgin Islanders. Our office remains focused on working with our local and federal partners to guarantee the continued obligation of permanent recovery work.”

This past spring, $99.6 million has been obligated toward repairs for housing communities. Projects include:

• Obligations of $16.6 million for repairs to the Estate Bovoni Housing Community and Community Center and $3.5 million for the Estate Tutu Apartments on St. Thomas, and $7.7 million for the Walter I M Hodge Pavilion and $3.4 million for the Aureo Diaz Housing Community on St. Croix.   

The projects to repair the housing communities include Hazard Mitigation Proposals to make windows, doors, and roofs more resistant against the ravages of storms. Proposals include:

• $1.9 million for Estate Bovoni Housing Community to include replacement of damaged ceilings with water and mold-resistant board panels and installation of water-resistant weatherstripping around windows and doors.
• $541,061 for Walter I M Hodge Pavilion to upgrade damaged gutters, vinyl flooring, door hardware and epoxy-based sealer concrete treatment along with door and window weatherstripping, and exterior security lighting.

Coordination between FEMA’s Utilities group and the Territory to strengthen the power grid across the U.S. Virgin Islands generated an April obligation of $172.5 million for electrical distribution permanent repairs on St. Thomas. This includes a $170.8 million Hazard Mitigation Proposal for the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) blueprint to build a more reliable and resilient grid.

The $172.5 million is in addition to $143 million previously obligated to make St. Thomas’ power distribution more resilient for a total obligation of $315.5 million for the project.

Mitigation measures include:

• Installation of underground primary feeders and composite poles to provide grid hardening and more reliable electrical services to the customers.
• The work would stabilize electrical services from the western end of St. Thomas to different communities in the St. Thomas/St. John District.
• The electrical distribution repairs would ensure a more rapid stabilization for the power grid after disasters.

Work continues between FEMA’s Transportation Group and the V.I. Department of Public Works on projects for permanent repairs to the Territory’s roads and DPW’s facilities. This coordination has led to $57.1 million obligated this past spring for DPW projects.

FEMA has obligated $9.1 million for repairs to DPW’s Anna’s Hope Compound on St. Croix. The project includes $279,953 for a Hazard Mitigation Proposal. Work to strengthen the sustainability of Anna’s Hope Compound from disasters includes:

• Installation of stronger windows, doors, and roofing panels to make them more resistant to winds and rains of storms.

Road and watershed projects include:

• An obligation of $2 million to repair roads provide access to neighborhoods in the Sandy Point area on St. Croix. This project includes a Hazard Mitigation Proposal of $901,343.
  • Mitigation measures would strengthen the pavement of the roads with permeable fabrics and improve roadside drainage with roadway excavation and paved waterways.
• An obligation of $2.8 million to repair roads damaged from flooding during Hurricane Maria in Estate Mount Pleasant on St. Croix. This project includes a Hazard Mitigation Proposal of $1.2 million.
  • Mitigation measures would strengthen pavement most prone to saturated subgrades or erosion. This would allow pavement to better resist damage from heavy trucks or resist erosion.
• An obligation of $5.1 million to repair roads and a commuter dock and ramp on Water Island. The watershed project includes a Hazard Mitigation proposal of $2.4million.
  • Mitigation measures would strengthen pavement most prone to saturated subgrades or erosion, improve stormwater drainage to reduce the damage of saturated subgrades and erosion, and add curbs and gutters or paved roadways.
• An obligation of $10 million for the Jersey Bay and Smith Bay watersheds on St. Thomas. The combined project includes a Hazard Mitigation Proposal of $4 million. Mitigation strategies proposed for roads in the watersheds are:
  • Strengthening the pavement structure that would be most prone to saturated subgrades or erosion and managing stormwater by improving drainage to lessen the effects of saturated subgrades and runoff erosion. This will be done primarily by upsizing culverts and constructing paved waterways.

FEMA continues to work with the Territory on permanent repairs to public buildings as well. Projects obligated this past spring include:

• An obligation of $7.9 million for the V.I. Economic Development Authority (V.I. EDA) for repairs to William D. Roebuck Industrial Park buildings 1,2,3 and 4 and the perimeter fence on St. Croix. The project includes a Hazard Mitigation Proposal of $2.9 million.
• Mitigation measures for the industrial park buildings will include:
  • Replacement of roofs with corrugated galvanized steel and roof straps to improve resilience.
  • Replacement of exterior doors with waterproof doors and stainless-steel frames to prevent or minimize water infiltration.
  • Upgrading gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the structures to prevent interior or basement water damage.
• An obligation of $7.3 million for repairs to the V.I. EDA’s Industrial Park Development Corp. building on St. Thomas. The EDA is preparing a final scope of work for review for demolition and replacement plans for the building in Sub Base.

FEMA will continue to leverage its resources with a focus on equitable delivery of its PA program with a focus on the Territory’s priorities for a recovery to benefit all Virgin Islanders. Efforts to protect lifelines, prevent and mitigate potential impacts to them, and building back stronger and smarter during recovery will drive overall resilience of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

This will ensure critical facilities that provide power, water, sewer, wastewater treatment, communications, education, emergency medical care and emergency services are more resistant to the ravages of hurricanes for generations to come. 

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, April 19, 2021 -- FEMA has obligated $7.3 million through its Public Assistance Program for permanent repairs to the V.I. Industrial Park Development Corp. building in Sub Base. The building was damaged during hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. FEMA photos.

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, June 2, 2021 – FEMA obligated $9.5 million this month through its Public Assistance Program for repairs to the Oswald Harris Housing Community. A Hazard Mitigation Proposal of $788,967 will include Installation of reinforcement for solar panels, stainless-steel doors, laminated flooring, protective lighting mesh and the addition of epoxy sealant to exterior walls.

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, May 26, 2021 -- FEMA obligated $10 million in May through its Public Assistance Program for the Jersey Bay and Smith Bay Watershed project toward the East End of the island. The combined project includes a Hazard Mitigation Proposal of $4 million to strengthen the pavement of roads in areas prone to saturated subgrades in high erosion areas and measures to improve stormwater drainage.

gina.callaghan Mon, 06/28/2021 - 17:02

Texas Winter Storm Survivors in Three Additional Counties Can Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

DENTON, Texas – Texas homeowners and renters in Kerr, Lamar and Shackelford who suffered damage from the February winter storm may now apply for disaster assistance with FEMA. If you applied with FEMA prior to the counties being added, you do not need to reapply.

If you have insurance and are applying for disaster assistance, you must also file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If insurance does not cover all your damage, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to register online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name

Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary lodging and home repairs, low- interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to businesses, homeowners and renters. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339) or visit www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

 

 

Carmen.Castro Mon, 06/28/2021 - 14:15